Abu Dhabi: A deal that would expand Philippine-United Arab Emirates (UAE) cooperation in the area of defense, including countering cyber warfare threats, is in the works, Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ver said on Friday. The envoy stated that the "Defense Agreement" would help facilitate the possible acquisition of traditional armaments and tools against cybersecurity warfare threats, and new technologies, among other things. It would also cover possible training and information exchange between the two states.
According to Philippines News Agency, talks on defense had been ongoing for a long time but gained new impetus recently as both countries pivoted their interests. The envoy expressed hope that the agreement would be signed soon, although he did not provide further details.
This development comes as Manila and Abu Dhabi explore more areas of cooperation beyond migration and oil. On April 21, the two governments signed the Agreement on Security Cooperation, enabling joint efforts to prevent, detect, and combat various forms of transnational and organized crime. Additionally, this year, the Philippines and UAE signed Treaties on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters, Extradition, and Transfer of Sentenced Persons.
Ver, during his tenure as Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary for Middle East Affairs from 2021 to 2023, advocated for the re-evaluation of Manila's policy towards the Middle East. Traditionally focused on oil importation, overseas Filipino workers, and Organization of the Islamic Conference facilitation, Manila has been expanding its partnerships with Middle East countries in a broad range of areas, especially economic.
With the UAE, Ver mentioned that Manila hopes to soon sign a key economic deal, the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which marks a shift from traditional areas of focus. In addition to defense, Manila and Abu Dhabi are also aiming to sign investment agreements for critical minerals and expansion of air services, which the envoy noted are fields that have been previously overlooked.
